Stage Fluids Engineer I

About this role

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is the end-to-end space company building rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems that keep the world connected, protected, expand humanity’s reach to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. We move fast, build real hardware for meaningful missions, and make the impossible routine. Come shape the future with us.

NEUTRON

Rocket Lab’s Neutron team is responsible for bringing our new large rocket Neutron and its launch and test sites to life. From designing and testing Neutron’s structures and components, to firing up its new Archimedes engines, to setting up Neutron’s launch pads and test sites across the United States, joining the Neutron team is your opportunity to help launch a new large rocket for the very first time.

STAGE FLUIDS ENGINEER I

A Stage Fluids Engineer I owns the design, build, and test of their fluid systems across the Neutron launch vehicle. Our team owns all plumbing and fluid systems between the tanks and the engines. Your work within the Fluid Systems department will turn vehicle-level requirements into a fluid network that enables Neutron to operate with aircraft-like reusability and reliability.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

• Design plumbing systems, components, and their secondary structures.

• Analyze these systems and components in the harsh and dynamic environments of launch.

• Model these systems to characterize and predict system behavior at all conditions.

• Test and qualify these systems and components.

• Manage requirements, realization, and implementation of systems in the larger launch vehicle context.

• Integrate your hardware into the vehicle.

• Review data from component, system, and vehicle level testing to optimize and improve future designs.

• Collaborate with components, propulsion, structures, mechanical, operations, and flight software teams to develop and define vehicle functions.

• Create tools to enhance the team’s analysis capabilities, streamline workflow and optimize launch operations.

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or relevant engineering discipline.

• Working knowledge of how to select and design around fluid components such as valves, pressure vessels, flex elements & fittings.

• Working knowledge of DfM/DfAM, machining processes, and welding processes.

• Working knowledge of integration processes & quality control relevant to fluid systems & components.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• 1+ years of experience in a fast-paced aerospace environment where you have completed difficult projects while collaborating effectively with other key groups.

• Strong understanding of how to design for classic aerospace constraints: minimizing mass while maintaining manufacturability, function, and low costs.

• Ability to read, write, and manage plumbing & instrumentation diagrams.

• Strong understanding of mechanical drafting and GD&T.

• Ability to earn trust, maintain positive professional relationships, & contribute to a culture of inclusion.

• Experience working with a distributed team across the globe.

• Advanced degree in a fluid mechanics-heavy field.

• Experience with oxygen, methane, and/or cryogenic systems.

• Experience using fluids analysis tools such as REFPROP, AMESIM, and/or GFSSP. Alternatively, have built your own fluid network solver in Python, Excel, or other tools.

• Experience using mechanical analysis tools such as ANSYS or NASTRAN.

• Experience using Siemens NX & Teamcenter.

• Proven ability to practically apply engineering fundamentals to solve real, complex problems.

• Demonstrated ability to rally a team to make & execute good decisions in a fast-paced environment with limited information.

This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package at Rocket Lab. Employees may also receive company equity and access to a robust benefits package including: top tier medical HMO, PPO & a 100% company-sponsored medical HSA plan option, dental and vision coverage, 3 weeks paid vacation and 5 days sick leave per year, 11 paid holidays per year, flexible spending and dependent care savings accounts, paid parental leave, disability insurance, life insurance, and access to a 401(k) retirement plan with company match. Other perks include: Discounted employee stock purchase program, subsidized EV charging stations, onsite gym, food and drinks, and other discounts.

Eligibility for benefits may vary based on employment status, please check with your recruiter for a comprehensive list of the benefits available for this role. Benefit programs are subject to change at the company’s discretion.

Base Pay Range (CA Only) $82,400 — $110,000 USD

WHAT TO EXPECT

We’re on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that’s not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work, and out-pace. We pride ourselves on having each other’s backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.

Important information:

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully adm

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